Skip to event navigation Skip to main content

10th Annual UMEI Lightning Bolt

Lace up for the 10th Annual Lightning Bolt!

You are invited to an active event for the whole family, Saturday, September 26, 2026 at Point Pelee National Park! The UMEI Lightning Bolt consists of a 10k run, 5k Walk or Run, a kids’ 1k run and a 400m kids’ dash. This is a timed race with W.R.A.C.E and can be used to qualify!!

Come support Christian Education at UMEI! All proceeds go towards making private Christian education affordable to as many families as we can. Sign up today and invite your friends!

We've heard your recommendations and we're changing a few things up, but the structure of the event won't change. For all changes, please read below.

What Your Registration Includes:

  • Free entry into Point Pelee
  • A Lightning Bolt race shirt (must register by the early bird deadline of September 11, 2026 to receive this)
  • Chip timed event by WRACE
  • Post race refreshments (including Mennonite Sausage!!) and a swag table - you'll be able to grab any swag you'd like from the swag table - this will reduce waste and multiple items going to families who may not need them.
  • Awards (1st, 2nd, 3rd place male/female for 5K and 10K runs and 5k walk, kids medals)
  • Many door prizes

Registration:

  • A family rate is available for 2 adults over 18 and up to 3 children participating in the Family 5K Lightning Run/Walk.
  • If kids from a family registered in the Family Run/Walk would like to participate in the Kids 400m Dash or the Kids 1K Run, please use code "FAMILY" to get 50% off each child's registration.

Things To Note:
Register by the early bird deadline to receive a Lightning Bolt race athletic long sleeve shirt. These will not be available for purchase at the event.
Awards ceremony and door prize draw immediately after the race (you must be present to receive your prize).

As usual, there will be a big ticket prize, what it is as this point is not known!

We've tried a few different options for those who have pledged additional funds, but it's been confusing in the past. This is how tickets will work this year - every participant will get a ticket that will go towards the general door prizes. Those who raise additional pledges of $300 or more, will receive a UMEI branded cooler bag at registration (see photo). Share your pledge page on social media, to your family and friends, etc!!6a454c67df518.jpg

This event runs rain or shine! There will likely be black flies and mosquitos - dress accordingly and bring/wear bug spray!

A map of the race is below: One lap around is 5k, those running 10k will complete it twice. Further instruction will be given at the event.

68253385ce9ef.png

Registration fees

Where pricing applies, shown amounts include mandatory charges, items, and fees.

Family 5k Lightning Run/Walk

2 adults and up to 3 children UNDER 18. Families must register in one transaction by clicking “ADD ANOTHER REGISTRANT” for each person and selecting "Family 5k Lightning Run/Walk". Discount will reflect on the final checkout page.

  1. CA$169.49
    Apr 23 - Sep 25
    Register for Family 5k Lightning Run/Walk

Kids Lightning 1k Run

This one is just for the kids! (12 and under)

  1. CA$29.23
    Apr 23 - Sep 25
    Register for Kids Lightning 1k Run

Kids Lightning Dash 400m

  1. CA$29.23
    Apr 23 - Sep 25
    Register for Kids Lightning Dash 400m

10k Lightning Bolt Run

Price changes in 2 months 6 days

5k Lightning Walk

Price changes in 2 months 6 days

  • This is for walkers only. If you plan to run and walk, please be mindful and register as a runner.

    1. CA$61.59

      Early bird pricing

      Now registering Apr 23 – Sep 10
      Register for 5k Lightning Walk
    2. CA$72.38
      Sep 11 – Sep 25

5k Lightning Run

Price changes in 2 months 6 days

Contact information

Event contact
UMEI Office
Phone
519 326-7448
Website
Visit website